Malappuram, Friday 17 December 2010: The fourth edition of the Malappuram Crafts Mela began at Kottakkunnu, the table-top tourist destination of Malappuram town, on Thursday evening.

Inaugurating the international fair of artists and artisans, Minister for Industries Elamaram Karim said the State aimed international recognition more than mere sale and development of handicrafts and handloom products.

He described the Malappuram Crafts Mela as a perfect platform for blending of two oriental civilizations. It will be a confluence of Kerala and Egyptian cultures, he said.

Egypt is the official partner country of the Malappuram Crafts Mela. Apart from Egypt, artisans from Afghanistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka are attending the two-week crafts fair. Artisans from most States across the country have set up their stalls at the fair. Besides selling their handicrafts, they will provide live demonstration of their product making.

More than 100 thatched pavilions were raised for the show. Thirty pavilions were devoted for an exclusive Loom and Homes thematic exhibition of handloom clothes and furnishings. Twelve food courts are offering a smorgasbord of Malabari dishes.

The fair will be open from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. till December 30. Entry will be free for the public.